Gallbladder surgery recovery tips

If you had gallbladder surgery, you may also feel some pain in your abdomen or shoulder. Here are some gallbladder surgery recovery tips to help minimize post-surgery pain and speed up your recovery after gallbladder removal surgery.

1.Choose Low-Fat Foods

Around 10% of people who have had their gallbladder taken out report ongoing digestive problems. In a ‘no gallbladder diet,’ the less fat you eat the better. As you recover, you can gradually add more fat to your diet. Get used to reading food labels. Choose low-fat foods, and eat lean protein, such as skinless, baked chicken, turkey breast, and baked fish. Avoid fatty meats, greasy or fried foods, and foods with rich, creamy sauces. After a full recovery, you may be able to eat these foods in small amounts. Everyone is different. It’ll take a bit of trial-and-error to see what your digestive system can and cannot handle.

2.Fiber is important

After surgery, you can start to re-introduce fibrous foods to your diet, but take things slow. If you attempt to include too much fiber, such as cruciferous vegetables, nuts, cereals, and legumes, you may experience cramps, bloating, and diarrhea.

3.Stay Hydrated

When you have diarrhea after gallbladder removal, you need to think about hydration. Diarrhea can drain your body of fluids, vitamins, and minerals. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or vitamin- and mineral-enhanced beverages. Sports drinks containing sodium, chloride, and potassium are a good option when you have diarrhea. Avoid alcohol and drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks.

4.Listen to your doctor

Following the instructions provided by your physician is the most important thing that you can do to speed up your recovery after gallbladder removal. There are clear reasons why your doctor might advise you to restrict your diet, wait a few days before you wash your incisions, or avoid lifting anything heavy. Following postoperative guidelines can make the biggest difference in speeding along with your recovery after gallbladder removal surgery and avoiding complications.

Having friends or family on standby to support you, will make your recovery early. Don’t let the stress affect your recovery.